Daley, G. Reynolds, Stults, Brothers optioned

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — To understand how strong the Rockies believe their bullpen is, don’t look at who’s in it. Look at who’s not. Matt Daley, Eric Stults, Rex Brothers and Greg Reynolds were all told today that they won’t be making the team.

Daley was considered to have a great shot given his strong spring, and manager Jim Tracy’s desire to carry 12 pitchers. But rather than have an extra bullpen arm, the Rockies appear poised to go with five starters and seven relievers, leaving Esmil Rogers to work as a longman for a few days early in the season if necessary.

Catcher Jordan Pacheco’s name tag was also missing from his locker, leaving the strong likelihood, as I wrote today in my column, that Jose Morales will serve as Chris Iannetta’s backup. Reynolds is scheduled to throw six innings in a minor-league game this week, and will help anchor the Triple-A rotation along with John Maine and Clayton Mortensen.

Patrick, a third-generation Colorado native, is back for his second stint covering the Rockies. He first covered the team from 2005-2009, helping chronicle “Rocktober” in 2007 and also following the team’s playoff run in 2009.

Nick Groke has worked at The Denver Post since 1997, as a sports reporter, city reporter, entertainment writer and digital editor and producer, among other newsroom posts. He also writes regularly about boxing, soccer, MMA and NASCAR.